Qatar Family Visit Visa: A Comprehensive Guide [2024]

A Family Visit Visa for Qatar allows expatriates residing in Qatar to invite their immediate family members for a short-term stay, typically up to six months. This visa is ideal for families wanting to spend extended time together without the complexities of a long-term residency. It’s a popular option for expatriates who wish to host their parents, siblings, children, or in-laws for family reunions or special occasions.

Family Visa Updates:

  • Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) has released an important update: The validity of the Hayya Card has been extended until January 2024 under certain conditions. This extension allows Hayya Card holders to enter Qatar with a permit.
  • Good news! The processing of Family Visit visas has returned to normal. You can now apply online using the Metrash app, with typical processing times of 1-2 weeks.
  • However, MOI Centers are largely still not accepting walk-in visitors for Residency Permit (RP) applications or follow-ups. As of March 2023, most visitors to the Gharaffa MOI Service Centre were advised to return after Ramadan.

Family Visit Visa Qatar Requirements

To apply for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar, you must meet several key requirements:

  • Valid QID: The sponsor (the resident in Qatar) must have a valid Qatar ID (QID).
  • Proof of Relationship: Documents such as marriage certificates or birth certificates must be provided to prove the familial relationship between the sponsor and the visitor.
  • Valid Passports: Both the sponsor and the visitor must have passports valid for at least six months from the date of application.
  • Employment Letter: The sponsor needs to present an employment letter detailing their position, salary, and contract duration, which demonstrates their capacity to support the visiting family member.

Family Visit Visa Qatar Procedure

The process for obtaining a Family Visit Visa involves several steps:

  • Online Application: Begin by filling out the Family Visit Visa application form on the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or through the Metrash2 app.
  • Document Submission: Submit the necessary documents, including proof of relationship, valid passports, and the sponsor’s employment details.
  • Fee Payment: Pay the visa processing fee online via the MOI portal or at a service center.
  • Approval Process: Once submitted, the application undergoes a review by the authorities. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.

Apply for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar Directly

For a more personalized approach, you can apply directly at the MOI service centers. Here’s how:

  • Visit a Service Center: Head to one of the designated MOI service centers with all required documents.
  • Submit Application: Complete and submit the application form along with the necessary documentation.
  • Pay Fees: Pay the applicable visa fee using cash or card at the service center.
  • Receive Updates: The MOI will notify you about the application status via SMS or email.

Apply for Family Visit Visa through Metrash

  • Download and Open Metrash App: Ensure you have the Metrash app installed on your smartphone. You can download it from Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iOS).
  • Login or Register: If you already have an account, login using your credentials. If not, you will need to register by providing your QID (Qatar ID) number and following the registration process.
  • Select Services: Once logged in, navigate to the “Visa Services” or a similar section depending on the app’s layout.
  • Choose Family Visit Visa: Look for the option to apply for a Family Visit Visa. It should be clearly labeled within the visa services section.
  • Fill out Application Form: Complete the application form with accurate details. You may need to provide information about the visitor(s), your relationship with them, purpose of visit, duration of stay, etc.
  • Upload Required Documents: Upload scanned copies of all required documents, which typically include passport copies, sponsor’s QID, relationship proof, and any other documents as specified.
  • Review and Submit: Double-check all the information provided to ensure accuracy. Once satisfied, submit your application through the app.
  • Payment: Pay the visa fee using the payment options available within the app.
  • Track Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the Metrash app. Notifications will be sent regarding any updates or approvals.
  • Receive Visa: Once approved, you will receive the Family Visit Visa electronically via the app. Ensure the visitor(s) have a copy of the visa when traveling to Qatar.

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By following these steps, you can conveniently apply for a Family Visit Visa through the Metrash app, avoiding the need to visit a physical service center.

Apply Family Visit Visa Qatar through MOI

  • Visit MOI website or Metrash app.
  • Select “Visa Services”.
  • Choose “Family Visit Visa”.
  • Fill out application form online.
  • Upload required documents (passport copies, sponsor’s QID, etc.).
  • Pay visa fee online.
  • Track application status via Metrash.
  • Receive visa electronically upon approval.

Apply Family Visit Visa Qatar Directly

To apply for a family visa in Qatar, you must visit a Qatar Visa Service Center in person to submit your application. You can download the Qatar family residence visa application form from this link and gather all the required documents mentioned above. The form is available in both English and Arabic languages for your convenience.

What to Do if Your Family Visit Visa for Qatar Gets Rejected?

If your Family Visit Visa application is rejected, consider the following steps:

  • Review Rejection Reasons: Carefully examine the reasons provided by the authorities for the rejection.
  • Correct and Reapply: Address any issues or missing documentation and resubmit your application with the necessary corrections.
  • Seek Professional Help: Consider consulting with a visa service agency or legal advisor who specializes in Qatar immigration matters for guidance.

What is an Entry Visa for Family Members?

An Entry Visa allows family members to enter Qatar for the initial short-term visit. It serves as a precursor to a Family Visit Visa and is often granted at the point of entry for eligible visitors. This visa is typically valid for one month, and it can be extended if the stay needs to be prolonged.

Undergo a Medical Test for a Qatar Residence Visa

For a stay extending beyond a month, visitors on a Family Visit Visa might need to undergo a medical examination. This test includes screening for infectious diseases and a general health check-up to ensure the visitor is fit to stay in Qatar.

How to Check Family Visit Visa Medical Test Reports

To check the medical test results for a Family Visit Visa:

  • Visit the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) Website: Use the online portal to access your test results.
  • Metrash2 App: Alternatively, you can check the medical test status through the Metrash2 app.
  • Service Centers: Visit a MOPH-approved medical center for direct inquiries regarding your test reports.

Undergo the Fingerprinting Process for a Family Visit Visa in Qatar

Once the medical test is completed, the next step is fingerprinting. This biometric process is mandatory for all visitors staying for more than one month and is conducted at designated service centers across Qatar.

Apply for a Family Residence Permit Card

For family members planning to stay long-term, applying for a Residence Permit (RP) card is essential. This process includes:

  • Submission of Documents: Provide necessary documents, including the sponsor’s QID, the visitor’s passport, and medical test clearance.
  • Fee Payment: Pay the RP card fee online or at a service center.
  • Processing: The authorities will process your application and issue the RP card, allowing the family member to stay in Qatar legally for an extended period.

Fee for Residence Permit Card

The fee for obtaining a Residence Permit card in Qatar varies based on the type and duration of the permit. Typically, the cost ranges from QAR 500 to QAR 1,000 per year. Check the MOI website or service centers for the most current fee schedule.

FAQs:

The processing time can range from a few days to two weeks, depending on the completeness of the application and the volume of requests.

Yes, you can extend the Family Visit Visa for up to six months by applying for extensions at the MOI service centers or through the Metrash2 app.

Overstaying can result in fines and legal complications. It’s crucial to adhere to the visa’s validity or seek an extension before it expires.

Generally, children below a certain age may be exempt from medical tests, but it’s advisable to check the latest guidelines from the MOI or MOPH.

Conclusion

The Qatar Family Visit Visa provides an excellent opportunity for family travelers. Understanding the requirements and procedures ensures a smooth application process, whether you’re applying online, through the Metrash2 app, or at a service center.

From initial entry visas to obtaining long-term residence permits, each step is designed to facilitate family visits while maintaining compliance with Qatar’s immigration laws. If you encounter challenges, such as visa rejection, knowing the corrective measures can help you reapply successfully. Always keep your documentation complete and updated, and utilize the available resources to check your visa and medical test statuses. With thorough preparation, you can make the most of your family visit to Qatar and enjoy your time together in this vibrant country.

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